Longitudinal associations between personal identity and parenthood among finnish young adults

Abstract

Fertility is declining rapidly across Western countries, and conventional factors (i.e., economic, cultural) seem insufficient in explaining the trend. The role of psychosocial factors, such as subjective perceptions of uncertainty, has gained importance in research. In this explorative study, we analysed for the first time the role of three personal identity processes from the Dimensions of Identity Development Scale (DIDS): commitment making, identification with commitment, and ruminative exploration, in becoming a parent in young adults. Using longitudinal survey data of Finnish young adults (measured at ages 22/25, 27/30, and 31/34; N = 657), our survival analyses showed that ruminative exploration decreased the likelihood of becoming a parent. The results support recent theories on the link between identity troubles and difficulties in entering and maintaining stable relationships and having children. In terms of practical implications, fertility will not be supported through progressive family policies alone. Instead, structural support of young people’s identity formation is needed. More broadly, the study guides future research into these questions.